Plegaria A Un Labrador

“Plegaria A Un Labrador” by Mercedes Sosa is a powerful anthem that calls upon laborers to rise and unite against oppression. The song opens with a vivid image of nature, urging the listener to look at the mountains, the source of essential elements like wind, sun, and water. This connection to nature symbolizes the fundamental and unchanging aspects of life that laborers are deeply connected to. The lyrics emphasize the laborer's role in shaping the world, both physically and spiritually, as they manage rivers and sow the seeds of their soul's flight.

The song then shifts to a call for unity and solidarity. By urging the laborer to look at their hands and join them with their brother's, Sosa emphasizes the importance of collective action. The phrase “juntos iremos unidos en la sangre” (together we will go united in blood) highlights the shared struggle and common destiny of the working class. This unity is not just for the present but is a timeless call, suggesting that the fight for justice and equality is an ongoing battle that transcends generations.

The plea for liberation from those who dominate in misery is a direct call for social justice. The imagery of the wind and fire cleansing and empowering the laborer’s tools symbolizes a purifying force that will bring about freedom and equality. The repetition of the call to rise and unite, ending with a solemn “amén,” gives the song a prayer-like quality, blending spiritual and revolutionary fervor. Mercedes Sosa, known for her powerful voice and commitment to social causes, uses this song to inspire and mobilize the oppressed, making it a timeless anthem for justice and solidarity.